Photo Journal: Air of festivity

Textiles dyed in the traditional "Hidazome" method are given an airing above the snow in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, on Jan. 26, 2016. The dying method, which uses rice glue and colorant mixed with soybean juice, dates back to the Edo period and is said to have originated in Kyoto. Exposure of the textiles to the cold winds in sub-zero temperatures is said to enhance their vivid hues and will continue until around March. The textiles are used in local festival outfits and shrine banners in the region. (Mainichi)